Invisalign Specialist

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a system that corrects bite problems and straightens teeth using plastic trays instead of metal braces. It can help with problems like:

• Overbite
• Underbite
• Crowded mouth
• Gaps between teeth
• Crossbite
• Open bite

During Invisalign treatment, you wear customized clear trays, one for each tooth arch, that gradually shift your teeth over time. The Invisalign trays, called aligners, fit closely but comfortably over your teeth. They exert gentle pressure to move teeth into the exact dimensions of the tray. 

After you wear your aligners for about two weeks, you trade them for a new set of aligners. Those new aligners shift the teeth a little more, and the process continues every two weeks until you finish treatment. 

What can I expect during the Invisalign process?

At Central Avenue Dental, you have a consultation and exam to evaluate your situation and needs. 

If you're a good candidate for Invisalign, the process starts with photographs and digital images of your mouth using a high-tech intraoral scanner. You may also need a computed tomography (CT) scan because it shows tooth root positions and can help your specialist plan tooth movements. 

Your dental specialist plans your Invisalign treatment with a specialized computer program. They send these plans and your images to the Invisalign laboratory, where it creates aligners for your exclusive use.

The dental specialists check the fit of your aligners and make small adjustments as needed. Then, you take the aligners home to start treatment.

How many hours do I wear Invisalign aligners per day?

You must wear Invisalign aligners for around 22 hours a day to get the best results. Central Avenue Dental recommends removing the aligners only for meals, daily cleaning, and special occasions like a graduation or work presentation. 

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

Invisalign treatment times may vary by case, but in general, most adults wear Invisalign for around 12 months. For teenagers, it can take up to 18 months to complete treatment. 

Can anyone wear Invisalign?

Although Invisalign is an easy and accessible orthodontic treatment to straighten teeth for most people, it's not ideal for everyone. Invisalign is generally best suited for people 16 and older. The Invisalign system works very well for minor alignment issues, but if you have severe issues, you may need braces or other orthodontics. 

If you want to learn more about invisible braces or Invisalign, call the Central Avenue Dental office or click on the scheduling tool.